Taste and see why Japan loves its sake and beer on this 2-Day trip in Fuchu

Kick off this route with a stop at Okunitama-jinja Shrine, set just a 5-minute walk from Keio Line's Fuchu Station. The approach from the main torii gate to the main hall is lined with approximately 120 zelkova trees, part of the Babadaimon no Keyaki Namiki, designated a national natural monument. As you make your way along the sacred tree-hugged walk, sip in the fresh air and clear vibes for the soul.

With a history of about 1,900 years, Okunitama-jinja Shrine is home to several sub-shrines that offer blessings for various aspects of life, including protection from evil and matchmaking. One particularly noteworthy spot is Matsuo Shrine, dedicated to the god of sake brewing. This shrine was established during the Edo period by brewers in the Musashi Province, who requested its deity from Kyoto's Matsuo Taisha Shrine.
Every year, sake breweries from Tokyo gather here for a special prayer festival, where they offer sake to the gods. Swing by in fall to find the Musashi no Kuni Sake Festival, a local event that draws sake-enthusiasts for a taste from all across Japan. If timed just right, making your visit during festival season is one especially fun way to travel like a local in the know.

After returning to Keio Line's Fuchu Station, hop into a taxi for an 8-minute ride to the Suntory Natural Water Beer Brewery in Tokyo Musashino. Here you’ll find a tantalizing glimpse into the brewing process behind Suntory hit labels like The Premium Malt's, plus the chance to enjoy a tasting.

With this tour you’re in for full, backstage access into the beer-making process, seeing how this brand goes from ingredient selection to packaging. Enjoy a taste of diamod malt, breathe in the fine scent of aroma hops, and peer in as wort brews down in massive kettles. It's a full sensory experience that's as entertaining as it is a chance to learn something new.

A major draw along the way is a chance to watch the mashing process in action, a specific point where filtration tanks and boiling kettles of infused wort take on the best of hop aromas. You’ll also learn about the brewery’s commitment to quality, including the use of natural water and the double decoction method, which enhances the richness and flavor of the beer. Don’t miss the VR space, a corner for virtual, hands-on looks into the brewery sensory quality checks!

Step into the chic tasting area for a flight of three beers poured straight from the tap: The Premium Malt's, The Premium Malt's [Japanese Ale] Kaoru Ale, and The Premium Malt's Master's Dream. If you’re feeling a bit hands on, you can even try the option to participate in a foam art or beer pouring challenge.

The Premium Malt's is a standout glass for strong hop aroma, while the Kaoru Ale keeps a frothy surprise of fruity notes and light, refreshing taste that even the most shy of beer drinkers would like. The Master's Dream, on the other hand, is the go-to for a richer, deeper flavor, with a robust body and color.

Before you leave, make sure to visit the on-site shop, where you can purchase Tokyo Craft Pale Ale, a craft beer exclusively brewed at this location, along with snacks that pair perfectly with beer. The shop also stocks plenty of original goods. Due to the brewery’s popularity, be sure to make a reservation on the official website before you go! (Website is available in Japanese. Please come to Fuchu Tourist Information Center to help you make a reservation.)

After a 5-minute taxi ride from Suntory Natural Water Beer Factory Tokyo-Musashino, head to Sakaza Nakakyu Honten. The sake shop's origin dates back to when the Noguchi family, who held the position of shrine officials at Okunitama-jinja Shrine, were asked to brew sacred sake for the shrine. The first Noguchi Kyubei founded "Nakaya" in 1860, which later became known as Nakakyu after shortening the name.
Step inside to find a full on shop complete with a selection of alcohol from Japan and abroad. There’s even a revived label, local sake "Kouzuru," which returned to production in Fuchu after 40 years in 2024.

At the renovated sake brewery café Kura Café, you can enjoy "sakekasu latte" made with Kouzuru sake lees and homemade cheesecake. They also host a monthly tasting event where you can sample around 10 types of sake in one go.

After choosing your sake souvenirs, take a 5-minute walk from Sakaza Nakakyu Honten to the long-loved local Japanese restaurant, Mimatsu Honten. This traditional restaurant is also recognized as a "Master of the Divine Foam" establishment, where you can enjoy the fine, creamy foam of Suntory's The Premium Malt's beer.

Settle in for a taste of fresh sushi and Japanese meals made with ingredients sourced daily from the Toyosu Fish Market. Pairing these dishes with beer or sake is a must-try experience. The interior is filled with a refined, traditional Japanese atmosphere, offering counter seating, sunken kotatsu seating, and private rooms for a more relaxed dining experience. Sitting at the counter, watching the skilled chef work right before your eyes, is the perfect way to cap off your day with an evening out. Take your time and savor the pairing of delicious Japanese food with carefully crafted drinks in this authentic setting.

After a full day of enjoying the various local drinks of Fuchu, it's time to kick back at one of the city's many coveted stays. Fuchu offers a range of lodging facilities, from business hotels to family-friendly options. Choose the perfect stay to fit your schedule and unwind comfortably.

Keep a pin in Fuchu for a unique trip that peers into the world of Japanese alcohol from nearly every angle: visiting historic shrines to pay respects to the god of sake, touring the brewery to see how delicious beer is made, and enjoying the perfect pairing of sake with traditional Japanese cuisine. If your plans are set for Fuchu, make a stop and take the dive into the taste of local alcohol that can only be found here.